Stage Left: 2018

Sunday, December 30, 2018

Review: Merrie melodies

This article originally appeared at 88.1 KDHX, where Chuck Lavazzi is the senior performing arts critic.

Share on Google+:

It's always nice to have a big, family-friendly event at this time of the year, and right now Grand Center is playing host to a pair of them: the musical "Anastasia" at the Fox and, just up the street at Powell Hall, "Walt Disney Animation Studios: A Decade in Concert."

I reviewed the former a couple of days ago. Last night (Friday, December 28) I had the pleasure of watching the latter as, under the expert direction of Resident Conductor Gemma New, an expanded roster of St. Louis Symphony Orchestra musicians (eighty of them, including Steve Schenkel and Kirk Hanser on electric guitar and Kelly Karamanov on synth) delivered slam-bang performances of music from a dozen recent Disney animated films while selections from movies played on the big screen above them. I found it delightful, and I've never even seen most of those movies; for the many fans, young and old, in the audience, it was obviously a bit of pure heaven.

The clips were artfully selected, so that even a relative newbie like me (I had seen only two of the twelve films) was able to get a feel for the story lines. The clips also represented a nice variety of animation styles, from the mid-1960s feel of "Winnie the Pooh" (2011), to the early-1990s look of "The Princess and the Frog" (2009) with its emphasis on caricature, to the more common 3-D design of "Moana" (2016) and the other films in the program.

Gemma New

There was plenty of variety in the music as well. I especially enjoyed Randy Newman's score for "The Princess and the Frog," with its pastiches of early 20th-century sentimental tunes, ragtime, and Dixieland, as well as Mark Mancia's percussion-heavy music for "Moana." Principal Percussionist Will James and the rest of his crew got quite a workout on that one.

Alan Menken's Celtic-themed score for "Tangled" (2010) generated plenty of excitement, and the comic hijinks of "Winnie the Pooh" were vividly illustrated by the equally comical score by Henry Jackman. And it's always a pleasure to hear the music Robert Lopez wrote for "Frozen" in 2013. "Let It Go," the Big Hit from the film, got a virtuoso performance (not credited, I'm sorry to note) by St. Louis's own Debby Lennon as the evening's encore.

All too often, phrases like "family entertainment" and "recommended for all ages" are euphemisms for "dull and unimaginative," as though children were simply very dim adults who could only be trusted with the performing arts equivalent of safety scissors. "Walt Disney Animation Studios: A Decade in Concert" was, I'm happy to say, none of those things. The little princesses (and princes) in the audience were obviously having a great time, as were the adults accompanying them. Let's hope some of them come back when the regular concert season resumes next month.

Next at Powell Hall: Former Resident Conductor Ward Stare returns to lead the orchestra and soloists in the BMO Private Bank "New Year's Eve Celebration" on Monday, December 31. As always, the actual program won't be known until the concert starts, so expect lots of surprises and even some Mystery Guests, musical and otherwise.

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 31, 2018

The 2019 season kicks off with new shows from the Rep and Webster Theatre Guild.

Alabama Story

Share on Google+:

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents the drama Alabama Story, opening on Wednesday, January 2nd, and running through January 27th. "A determined librarian and a segregationist senator face off over an innocent children’s book in 1959 Montgomery. Depicting the marriage of two rabbits – who happen to have different-colored fur – the story has Sen. E.W. Higgins calling for a book ban. But even as the pressure mounts, librarian Emily Wheelock Reed refuses to yield to censorship. Inspired by true events, Alabama Story is a stirring testament to free expression." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center on the Webster University campus. For more information: repstl.org,

Anastasia
Photo by Evan Zimmerman

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents the musical Anastasia, running until January 6. "Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical ANASTASIA is on a journey to St. Louis at last! From the Tony Award®-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, this dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family." The Fabulous Fox Theatre in on N. Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

Away in a Basement

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents the musical Away in a Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas running through January 6. " 'Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas' takes audiences back to 1959 on the day of the Sunday School Christmas Program. In the midst of holiday preparations and sprinklings of love in the air, the ladies in their witty, down-to-earth style are creating their own memories from Christmases past and present. Content to do things the way they have always been done, yet pondering new ideas, the reality of everyday life hits home as they plan the Sunday School Christmas Program. As the children rehearse in the sanctuary, several of the ladies are in the kitchen finishing up the treat bags filled with apples, peanuts and ribbon candy while the others put the final touches on the nativity pieces. As they mend old bathrobe costumes, discuss the politics of who's going to play the various roles, little do the ladies know what surprises are in store for them. Known for their hilarious antics and subtle charm, they are once again called upon to step in and save the day!" The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza. For more information: www.playhouseatwestport.com.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents A Christmas Sleigh-Ing through January 6. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

CSZ St. Louis presents The ComedySportz Show on Saturday nights at 7:30 pm. The show is "action-packed, interactive and hilarious comedy played as a sport. Two teams battle it out for points and your laughs! You choose the winners the teams provide the funny!" Performances take place on the second floor of the Sugar Cubed, 917 S Main St. in St Charles, Mo. For more information: www.cszstlouis.com.

The Theatre Guild of Webster Groves presents the thriller Dial M for Murder opening on Friday, January 4, at 8 pm and running through January 13. " Tony Wendice has married his wife, Margot, for her money and now plans to murder her for the same reason. He arranges the perfect murder. Unfortunately...the murderer gets murdered and the victim survives. But this doesn't baffle the husband: He sees his hireling's death as an opportunity to have his wife convicted for the murder. Luckily, the police inspector from Scotland Yard and a young man who is in love with the wife discover the truth." Performances take place in the Guild theatre at Newport and Summit in Webster Groves, MO. For more information: theatreguildwg.org or call 314-962-0876.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Harm for the Holidays through December 31. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's Events Calendar.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

Friday, December 28, 2018

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 28, 2018

A new musical at the Fox joins this list for this final weekend of 2018

Share on Google+:

New This Week:

Anastasia
Photo by Evan Zimmerman

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents the musical Anastasia opening on Wednesday, December 26, and running until January 6. "Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical ANASTASIA is on a journey to St. Louis at last! From the Tony Award®-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, this dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family." The Fabulous Fox Theatre in on N. Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

My take: Nobody would consider this one of the great musicals of all time but, as I point out in my review for KDHX, it's a charming, family friendly musical romance that's hard to beat. Performances are outstanding and the technical aspects of the production are stunning.

Held Over:

Wonderland

Metro Theatre Company presents Wonderland: Alice's Rock and Roll Adventure through December 30th. "Part rock concert, part theater, all of your favorite characters as Metro Theater Company presents this new, wild and wondrous take on Lewis Carroll's beloved, poetic tale of self-actualization. A cast of actors/musicians plays an eclectic mix of everything from soul and rock to punk to ska as Alice chases through Wonderland in search of her own inner musical voice. A fun, hip, and refreshing fusion of music, theatre and poetry, Wonderland: Alice's Rock and Roll Adventure is the search for one's authentic self, asking how can you march to the beat of your own drummer when you're still writing the song? It places Alice in a strange, new world, where she conquers her fears and uses her musical skills to defeat the Jabberwock." The performance takes place at the Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square in Grand Center. For more information: metroplays.org.

My take: Lewis Carroll's characters have been through so many revisions and re-interpretations over the years that this new rock musical version hardly seems unusual at all. At Ladue News, Mark Bretz calls it a "festive, musical adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories, updated with a modern message and ‘happening’ music which makes for a frolic-filled production." The cast includes KDHX theatre critic Shannon Cothran as well as the exceptionally talented Omega Jones. And as an added bonus, it has nothing to do with Christmas.

Review: A fine romance

This article originally appeared at 88.1 KDHX, where Chuck Lavazzi is the senior performing arts critic.

The cast of Anastasia
Photo by Evan Zimmerman

Share on Google+:

"Anastasia," the 2016 stage adaptation of the 1997 animated musical film that's playing the Fox through January 6th, has imposing credentials. With music by the talented team of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens and a book by celebrated playwright Terrence McNally what could possibly go wrong?

The answer, happily, is "nothing."

Indeed, this colorful and charming romantic fantasy does pretty much everything right, beginning with an engaging score that supports the story well. "Anastasia" doesn't have the through-composed weight of Flaherty and Ahrens's "Ragtime" or the ingenious wit of their "Seussical," but it does the job and even manages to generate some memorable tunes. "Journey to the Past," the big first-act closer, has already caught on with many younger singers, for example.

Lila Coogan
Photo by Matthew Murhpy

Mr. McNally's book tells a complicated story efficiently with characters that, while lacking in depth, are nevertheless clear and consistent in their motivations. The play opens in Tsarist St. Petersburg in 1906, as the young Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna bids a tearful farewell to her beloved grandmother, the Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna, who is off to live in Paris. The action quickly moves to 1917, as the teenaged Anastasia is apparently killed with the rest of the Romanov family in the revolution.

Or maybe not. Cut to 1927, as Vlad Popov, a former member of the Imperial court, hatches a plan with his young protégé Dmitry to find a young girl who can be passed off as Anastasia, whose death was never confirmed. Rumors of her survival persist, and in Paris the Dowager Empress is offering a tidy sum for proof that she lives.

L-R: Edward Staudenmayer, Lila Coogan,
Stephen Brower
Photo by Evan Zimmerman

They stumble upon Anya, an amnesiac street sweeper who seems to know things that only Anastasia could, and they're convinced wealth is at hand. All they need to do is coach Anya and make their way to Paris while avoiding the machinations of Bolshevik general Gleb Vaganov, who is determined to kill rumors of Anastasia's survival--along with the real Anastasia, if necessary.

With Gleb in hot pursuit, they make it to Paris, where Vlad hopes to re-ignite his affair with Countess Lily Malevsky-Malevitch (now the Dowager Empress's lady-in-waiting) and where Dmitry falls desperately in love with Anastasia, even though he knows that, should their scheme succeed, he'll lose her forever.

But because "Anastasia" is a musical rather than an opera, all ends happily.

Jason Michael Evans
Photo by Matthew Murphy

This first USA tour, which began in Schenectady, New York, back in October, boasts a truly excellent cast. Lila Coogan is a radiant Anastasia, vocally strong and very credible as a troubled young woman trying to sort out fact from fancy in her life. Her performance of "Journey to the Past" was the showstopper it was obviously intended to be. Stephen Brower is a lovable and charismatic Dmitry with his own big moment in "My Petersburg" towards the end of Act I.

Edward Staudenmayer, who was such a brilliant Lord Evelyn in "Anything Goes" at the Fox in 2013, hits the theatrical bull's-eye again as Vlad, especially when he's working opposite Tari Kelly's hilarious Countess Lilly in their gloriously silly love duet, "The Countess and the Common Man." Ms. Kelly reminded me of the young Carol Burnett, with her impeccable comic timing and vocal power.

L-R: Victoria Bingham, Joy Franz
Photo by Evan Zimmerman

Jason Michael Evans has a big, powerful baritone voice that gives his Gleb real authority, especially in his final confrontation with Anya, but I felt he telegraphed the character's unhinged obsession a bit too early in the show. The intensity of his performance worked better in Act II, when the conflict between Gleb's growing affection for Anya and his sense of duty are clearly driving him to distraction.

Joy Franz is a moving Dowager Empress and Victoria Bingham is a real delight as Little Anastasia. The members of the ensemble display remarkable versatility in a variety of roles and provide some impressive dancing in production numbers like "Paris Holds the Key (To Your Heart)" and "Land of Yesterday."

The technical aspects of this production are stunning. Aaron Rhyne's digital videos and projections bring the show's many settings to vivid and often strikingly realistic life, from the muted oppression of Soviet-era St. Petersburg to the brightly colorful Paris of the late 1920s. Complex scene changes take place within seconds, helping the show to move at a brisk clip and making it all seem much shorter than its run time of nearly two hours and forty-five minutes, including intermission.

Lila Coogan and the ensemble
Photo by Matthew Murphy

Linda Cho's striking costumes and Alexander Dodge's sets add to the strong visual appeal of "Anastasia," and director Darko Tresnjak, who also directed the Broadway original, pulls it all together in one big, bright package. Down in the pit, Music Director/Conductor Lawrence Goldberg leads a flawless account of the score.

Peter Hylenski is credited with sound design, so I'm going to assume we have him to thank for the crystal-clear amplified sound. All the lyrics were easily understandable, even in the larger ensemble numbers. That's not always the case at the Fox, so thanks for that.

"Anastasia" is a very appealing post-Christmas present for local audiences. It's a bit superficial and goes a bit too easy on the White Russian émigrés of the early 20th century, but as a charming, family friendly musical romance it's hard to beat. Performances continue through January 6th at the Fabulous Fox in Grand Center.

Sunday, December 23, 2018

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 24, 2018

The big holiday theatre freeze is on, but you can still catch shows at the Rep, Westport, and Metro.

Share on Google+:

Anastasia
Photo by Evan Zimmerman

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents the musical Anastasia opening on Wednesday, December 26, and running until January 6. "Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical ANASTASIA is on a journey to St. Louis at last! From the Tony Award®-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, this dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family." The Fabulous Fox Theatre in on N. Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

Away in a Basement

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents the musical Away in a Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas running through January 6. " 'Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas' takes audiences back to 1959 on the day of the Sunday School Christmas Program. In the midst of holiday preparations and sprinklings of love in the air, the ladies in their witty, down-to-earth style are creating their own memories from Christmases past and present. Content to do things the way they have always been done, yet pondering new ideas, the reality of everyday life hits home as they plan the Sunday School Christmas Program. As the children rehearse in the sanctuary, several of the ladies are in the kitchen finishing up the treat bags filled with apples, peanuts and ribbon candy while the others put the final touches on the nativity pieces. As they mend old bathrobe costumes, discuss the politics of who's going to play the various roles, little do the ladies know what surprises are in store for them. Known for their hilarious antics and subtle charm, they are once again called upon to step in and save the day!" The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza. For more information: www.playhouseatwestport.com.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents A Christmas Sleigh-Ing through January 6. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

CSZ St. Louis presents The ComedySportz Show on Saturday nights at 7:30 pm. The show is "action-packed, interactive and hilarious comedy played as a sport. Two teams battle it out for points and your laughs! You choose the winners the teams provide the funny!" Performances take place on the second floor of the Sugar Cubed, 917 S Main St. in St Charles, Mo. For more information: www.cszstlouis.com.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Harm for the Holidays through December 31. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Wonderland: Alice's Rock and Roll Adventure

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's Events Calendar.

Review: Holly jolly novelty

Gemma New conducts the orchestra and chorus
Photo courtesy of St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

What with the unseasonably warm weather and irrationally dumb politics, it can be hard to get into the festive spirit right now, but last night (Friday, December 21st) a Poinsettia Punch and the annual "Mercy Holiday Celebration" with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Holiday Festival Chorus did the trick for me. I strongly recommend the combination.

As was the case last year, Resident Conductor Gemma New was the conductor and MC. Back then I wrote that I was very taken with her elegant and fluid style on the podium and her charm as the evening's host, and I see no reason to change that opinion now. She has both the musical and PR aspects of the proceedings firmly under control.

As is usually the case with the holiday show, the evening was a mix of familiar classics and seasonal songs. Whit Richert's irrepressible Santa made his usual appearance, bringing out a child from the audience to "conduct" the orchestra in Leroy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride," and the evening concluded with "A Holly Jolly Sing-Along."

Soprano Camille Zamora
Photo by Liron Amsellem

The big difference this year was the vocal soloist. Usually it's someone from the world of musical theatre like Doug LaBrecque (2017), Nicole Parker (2016), or Whitney Claire Kaufman (2013 and 2015). This year is was the captivating Spanish soprano Camille Zamora, who has a substantial classical and operatic background. Her powerful voice added to the impact of Jeff Tyzik's inventive arrangements of traditional carols like "Silent Night" and "We Three Kings" (with its lively percussion line), as well as less familiar songs like "Tu scendi dalle stelle" (roughly, "You descend from starry skies"), written in 1732 by Alphonsus Liguori.

The Holiday Festival Chorus, composed of singers from local high schools, was in fine form as always but here, too, there was a new wrinkle in the form of 20th century German composer Franz Biebl's popular "Ave Maria." Chorus director Kevin McBeth took a leaf from the book of the Venetian polychoral master Giovanni Gabrielli by putting some of his singers (members of the Pattonville High School Choir) upstairs in front of the dress circle. The antiphonal effect was striking from our seats in the Dress Circle boxes; from the orchestra floor it must have been like hearing the angels sing.

Mr. McBeth sang the introductory verse of the piece himself from his perch in front of the upstairs choir. That, too, was a first, at least for me. I'd never had the chance to hear him sing before.

Kevin McBeth

Other delightful musical discoveries this year included "Chanukah 5776," a lively collection of Jewish seasonal melodies by Miami-based trumpeter and composer Sam Hyken, and Steve Amundson's "On Christmas Day" an ingenious fantasy on the British carol "I Saw Three Ships," originally written for the St. Olaf Choir's 2017 Christmas festival. There was even a Rodgers and Hammerstein number I'd never heard before: "Happy Christmas, Little Friend." It was commissioned by "Life" magazine in 1952 and performed with great warmth by Ms. Zamora.

The more familiar numbers included a couple of my favorites: Leroy Anderson's "A Christmas Festival" and the "Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy" from "The Nutcracker," with an impeccable celesta solo by Peter Henderson. I have loved the Anderson piece since I played the trombone part in my high school orchestra. I dare anyone not to smile at the finale, which combines "Adeste Fideles," "Joy to the World," and "Jingle Bells" in clever counterpoint.

Holiday events continue for the rest of December with "Walt Disney Animation Studios: A Decade in Concert" on Friday and Saturday, December 28 and 29 and the "BMO Private Bank New Year's Eve Celebration on the 31st. The Disney event has only "limited view" tickets at this time. All concerts take place at Powell Symphony Hall in Grand Center.

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 21, 2018

A new show by Imaginary Theatre Company joins shows by the Rep, Metro, R-S, and Stray Dog on the list this week.

Share on Google+:

New This Week:

The Christmas Skates
Photo by Repertory Theatre of St. Louis

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis's Imaginary Theatre Company presents the children's musical The Christmas Skates running through December 22. "The true spirit of the holiday season shines brightly in this new musical adaptation of Mary Griggs Van Voorhis's short story, "The Boy with the Box." It's nearly Christmas, and Tom Reynolds is excited to show off his brand new skates - that is, until someone shows up with a newer, better pair. Meanwhile, across town, Harvey McGinnis is thrilled with the meager gifts he's managed to gather for his little sisters. Inspired by Harvey's kindness and spirit, Tom hatches a plan to give his new friend a holiday surprise to remember." Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre at Nerinx Hall High School, 530 East Lockwood Avenue, Webster Groves. For more information: repstl.org.

My take: ITC has a long history of providing quality children's theatre. If you're looking for live entertainment for the younger set, I don't think you can go wrong with this.

Held Over:

A Christmas Story
Photo by Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told
Photo by John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 pm through December 22. There will also be a show at 8 pm on Wednesday, December 19. "First men on earth Adam and Steve and their lesbian friends Jane and Mabel decide to start civilization, despite the provocative challenges of procreation. They are led by the stage manager (who may be God) through the Garden of Eden, the Great Flood, a visit with a highly rambunctious Pharaoh, and finally, the birth of the Messiah. This outlandish comedy is a perfect alternative holiday treat!" Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

My take: Looking for something a bit more adult in the way of holiday theatre? Stray Dog has your ticket. It's an audacious, bright comedy that recasts the Old Testament story of Adam and Eve with Adam and Steve," writes Paul Friswold at The Riverfront Times, "but it's more than a cheeky romp through the Bible. Director Justin Been's vision for the show emphasizes the humanity of Rudnick's script, ensuring that this is a Christmas story with love and faith at the heart of it."

Perfect Arrangement
Photo by Michael Young

R-S Theatrics presents Perfect Arrangement Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays a 7 pm through December 23. "Government employees Bob and Norma are given the job of rooting out 'sexual deviants' in the U.S. State Department during the Cold War. The only problem? Both are in sham marriages to hide their own homosexuality. Told in the style of a classic TV sitcom and set during the Lavender Scare that actually took place in the 1950's, Topher Payne's play asks how far you would go to protect yourself if it meant sacrificing others." Performances take place at black box theatre at The Marcelle, 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr. in Grand Center. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

My take: In his review at STL Today, Calvin Wilson calls this "a smart, engaging and provocative comedy-drama that sheds light on just how different things were in America not so long ago." "Perfect Arrangement," writes Richard Green at Talkin' Broadway, "unfolds in a very tidy, logical manner—with government personnel files that go missing, and incriminating love letters that resurface from long ago. It's an irresistible glimpse into a chapter of American history we might otherwise be tempted to forget." I have come to the conclusion that anybody who thinks the 1950s were great either didn't live through them, or did so with blinders on. Topher Payne's play is a reminder that nostalgia is like a grammar lesson: it thinks the present tense and the past perfect.

Wonderland

Saturday, December 15, 2018

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 17, 2018

This week is your last chance to see shows at most local theatres. It's also your opportunity to celebrate the season at the Cabaret Project's open mic.

Share on Google+:

Away in a Basement

The Playhouse at Westport Plaza presents the musical Away in a Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas running through January 6. " 'Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas' takes audiences back to 1959 on the day of the Sunday School Christmas Program. In the midst of holiday preparations and sprinklings of love in the air, the ladies in their witty, down-to-earth style are creating their own memories from Christmases past and present. Content to do things the way they have always been done, yet pondering new ideas, the reality of everyday life hits home as they plan the Sunday School Christmas Program. As the children rehearse in the sanctuary, several of the ladies are in the kitchen finishing up the treat bags filled with apples, peanuts and ribbon candy while the others put the final touches on the nativity pieces. As they mend old bathrobe costumes, discuss the politics of who's going to play the various roles, little do the ladies know what surprises are in store for them. Known for their hilarious antics and subtle charm, they are once again called upon to step in and save the day!" The Playhouse at Westport Plaza is at 635 West Port Plaza. For more information: www.playhouseatwestport.com.

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents A Christmas Sleigh-Ing through December 29. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis's Imaginary Theatre Company presents the children's musical The Christmas Skates running through December 22. "The true spirit of the holiday season shines brightly in this new musical adaptation of Mary Griggs Van Voorhis's short story, “The Boy with the Box.” It's nearly Christmas, and Tom Reynolds is excited to show off his brand new skates - that is, until someone shows up with a newer, better pair. Meanwhile, across town, Harvey McGinnis is thrilled with the meager gifts he's managed to gather for his little sisters. Inspired by Harvey's kindness and spirit, Tom hatches a plan to give his new friend a holiday surprise to remember." Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre at Nerinx Hall High School, 530 East Lockwood Avenue, Webster Groves. For more information: repstl.org.

A Christmas Story
Photo by Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis presents A Christmas Story, based on the movie by Jean Shepherd, through December 23. "Ralphie Parker's quest to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas returns to The Rep in all its heartwarming and hilarious glory. Filled with delightful holiday vignettes and endlessly quotable lines ("You'll shoot your eye out!"), this play is the perfect gift for the whole family to enjoy. See the classic movie brought to life on stage!" Performances take place on the mainstage at the Loretto-Hlton Center, 130 Edgar Road in Webster Groves, MO. For more information, call 314-968-4925 or visit repstl.org.

CSZ St. Louis presents The ComedySportz Show on Saturday nights at 7:30 pm. The show is "action-packed, interactive and hilarious comedy played as a sport. Two teams battle it out for points and your laughs! You choose the winners the teams provide the funny!" Performances take place on the second floor of the Sugar Cubed, 917 S Main St. in St Charles, Mo. For more information: www.cszstlouis.com.

The St. Louis Writers' Group presents End of the Year Party and Monologue Event on Monday, December 17 at 6:30 pm. " No booking required. Just bring an original monologue that is 90 seconds to five minutes long. Audience members and actors are always welcome too. Prepare to read it yourself, have an actor friend read it for you or one of the regulars can read it. The only very loose guideline is that your monologue should somehow be related to the winter/holiday season. It can be serious, funny, dramatic, tragic or just plain weird. Following last year's successful event we're hoping for an equally enjoyable evening. The emphasis is on fun before the group breaks for the winter." The event takes place upstairs at Big Daddy's, 1000 Sidney in Soulard. For more information: www.stlwritersgroup.com.

Tesseract Theatre Company presents Facing, a new play by Caitlin McCommis, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm through December 23. "Wilda has modeled her life after that of her grandmother: to be fearless and adventure down the same dirt roads. When she's diagnosed with a debilitating illness, the vision of her future gets ripped away as she's welcomed to a club that she never asked to be a part of. But when another club member goes through a crisis, Wilda is forced to look her worst nightmare in the eye. " Performances take place at The .ZACK, 3224 Locust in Midtown. For more information: tesseracttheatre.org.

The Lemp Mansion Comedy-Mystery Dinner Theater presents Harm for the Holidays through December 31. The Lemp Mansion is at 3322 DeMenil Place. For more information: lempmansion.com.

Next Generation Theatre Company presents It's a Wonderful Life, based on the classic film, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 and Sunday at 2 pm, December 21 - 23. "George Bailey has spent his entire life giving of himself to the people of Bedford Falls. After a huge loss, George is forced to face his own humanity and what things would have been like if he had never been born. NGTC will bring this family favorite to life right in front of your eyes!" Performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 314-921-5678 or visit www.nextgenerationtheatre.company.

The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told
Photo by John Lamb

Perfect Arrangement
Photo by Michael Young

R-S Theatrics presents Perfect Arrangement Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays a 7 pm through December 23. "Government employees Bob and Norma are given the job of rooting out 'sexual deviants' in the U.S. State Department during the Cold War. The only problem? Both are in sham marriages to hide their own homosexuality. Told in the style of a classic TV sitcom and set during the Lavender Scare that actually took place in the 1950's, Topher Payne's play asks how far you would go to protect yourself if it meant sacrificing others." Performances take place at black box theatre at The Marcelle, 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr. in Grand Center. For more information: r-stheatrics.com.

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer the Musical Saturday at 11 am, 3 pm, and 7 pm and Sunday at 1 and 5 pm, December 22 and 23. "Winner of over 100 international awards and seen by over 65 million people worldwide, Les Misérables is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. " The Fabulous Fox Theatre in on N. Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

Carol Schmidt

The Cabaret Project presents the gala holiday edition of its monthly Singers Open Mic Night on Wednesday, December 19, from 7 to 10 pm. Drop by and enjoy a night of great music from St. Louis cabaret artists, backed up by pianist and music director Carol Schmidt. Your MC is KDHX Senior Performing Arts Critic Chuck Lavazzi. If you're planning to sing, be prepared to do one or two songs and bring music, preferably in your key. It's also recommend that you have your song memorized. Seasonal songs are strongly encouraged and there will be a Christmas carol sing-along. The event takes place at Sophie's Artist Lounge on the second floor of the .ZACK performing arts space at 3224 Locust in Grand Center. For more information: thecabaretproject.org.

Wonderland: Alice's Rock and Roll Adventure

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's Events Calendar.

Friday, December 14, 2018

Review: Holiday storm

Storm Large

Tuesday night (December 11) there were two holiday concerts in Grand Center. In Powell Hall, the Bach Society presented their annual Christmas Candlelight Concert. A half block away, at the Sun, was "Storm Large's Holiday Ordeal."

Talk about your contrast.

Don't get me wrong: the Bach Society's event is magical, but for sheer Benzedrine-in-your-Ovaltine energy, you can't beat Storm Large and her band. Sure, most of the songs had only a tangential relationship to Christmas, but they were, as usual, delivered with that irresistible mix of rock attitude and cabaret honesty that is the hallmark of Storm Large's performances.

Ms. Large and her band have become familiar faces here in St. Louis. This was her sixth visit to town since she made her debut here in 2014 and her second appearance this year (the last one was at the Sheldon in January). She has clearly accumulated a good-sized fan base, all of which was apparently present to cheer her on Tuesday night. She gave it a hell of a great show, and probably picked up some new fans in the process.

If you have never seen Storm Large and her merry band, I'll just say (as I did when I first saw her in 2014) that she is a hypnotic, compelling, and energetic performer. Statuesque, slinky (in a glittery green gown that looked like holiday wrapping paper), and blessed with a powerful, seamless voice, she can deliver a sultry ballad or a raucous rock number with equal aplomb.

The song list this time around included some numbers that will be familiar to her fans, like Alphaville's "Forever Young" and "La Seine," by the contemporary French singer/songwriter -M- (real name Matthieu Chedid), both of which got the high-energy treatment for which Ms. Large is justifiably famous. Holiday tunes included Red West's "If Every Day Was Like Christmas" (recorded by Elvis Presley in 1966) as well as ballads in which Christmas plays only a bit part, like Chrissie Hynde's "2000 Miles" and Joni Mitchell's "River."

Some of the biggest emotional moments, though, came from Ms. Large's own compositions. That includes the lovely slice-of-romantic-life poem "Angels in Gas Stations" ("God is every damn where tonight," runs the refrain) and the encore number "Stand Up For Me," which takes a nicely poetic idea--what would Love ask of us, if it could speak?--and makes it the basis for a deeply felt anthem.

And, yes, we all stood up.

The fact that "Storm Large's Holiday Ordeal" was presented at the Sun was given a bit of additional resonance by the fact that the audience included a celebrity guest who spent a fair amount of time a half block east on the stage of Powell Hall: former St. Louis Symphony Music Director Leonard Slatkin, who was in town for a special tribute concert by the Chamber Music Society of St. Louis. Ms. Large talked about how Mr. Slatkin, in his capacity as Music Director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, invited her to sing with the orchestra at Carnegie Hall. It was a major turning point in her life--and yet another reason for St. Louisians to love Mr. Slatkin (as though we needed one).

Accompanying Ms. Large were, as usual, pianist and music director James Beaton, guitarist Matt Brown, bass guitarist Scott Weddle, and drummer Greg Eklund. Collectively known as "Le Bonheur," they've been playing with Ms. Large for years and, as I observed when they played here in January, they appear to have developed an almost telepathic rapport with her that allows them to easily adapt to her freewheeling performance style. These guys really know how to rock, but they can also sing in gorgeous four-part harmony when the song calls for it.

"Storm Large's Holiday Ordeal" was a one night only event, but the indefatigable singer moves on to Chicago for an extended engagement at the Chicago Symphony Center December 14-23, after which she's off to Bend, Oregon, and then her home turf of Seattle, Washington. You can keep up with her peregrinations at her web site. If you missed her this time, never fear; her remarkable energy and her popularity with local audiences will no doubt bring her back our way again.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of December 17, 2018

It's all ho-ho-holiday music all the time this week on the classical concert scene.

The St. Louis Low Brass Collective presents a Holiday Low Brass Play Along on Saturday, December 22, at 10 am. "Every year the STLLBC welcomes all low brass musicians to the Missouri Botanical Garden to ring in the holiday season the best way we know how, on low brass instruments. This event is free and open to everyone. There is a rehearsal for all performers starting at 10 and we will perform at noon." The event takes place at Missouri Botanical Garden in the Shaw Neighborhood For more information: www.stllbc.org.

Kevin McBeth and the IN UNISON® Chorus

The St. Louis Symphony presents A Gospel Christmas with the St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON® Chorus conducted by Kevin McBeth, on Thursday, December 20, at 7:30 p.m. "Ten-time Grammy Award-winning a cappella group TAKE 6 joins the SLSO and IN UNISON Chorus led by Kevin McBeth to ring in the holiday season like no other! Hear TAKE 6 perform unforgettable contemporary gospel renditions of favorite holiday classics and more. Heralded by Quincy Jones as the “baddest vocal cats on the planet,” don't miss this soulful celebration sure to warm your heart with holiday cheer." The concert takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. The concert is currently sold out, but some standing room tickets are still available. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Gemma New conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra along with the Holiday Festival Chorus and soloist Camille Zamora in the Mercy Holiday Celebration Friday and Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., December 21-23. "Glad tidings we bring this holiday season at the fantastically decorated Powell Hall! Join the St. Louis Symphony and Holiday Festival Chorus for a concert full of timeless holiday classics and, of course, a special visit with jolly ol' St. Nick! See why over 11,000 St. Louisans make this their annual holiday tradition." The concerts take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The 442s

The Washington University Department of Music presents The 442s Holiday Spectacular with special guests Christine Brewer, Peter Martin, Erin Bode, Brian Owens, Montez Coleman, plus other surprise special guests, on Monday and Tuesday, December 17 and 18, at 7:30 pm. "Back by popular demand, The 442s are joined by some of the brightest stars of the local and national music scene in presenting a not-to-be-missed holiday spectacular. Performing traditional and original favorites that break down boundaries between jazz, soul, pop and classical music, this concert will get you in the perfect holiday spirit!" The concert takes place in the Lee Concert Hall at the 560 Music Center at 560 Trinity in University City. For more information, music.wustl.edu or call 314-935-5566.

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 14, 2018

New this week: the return of a classic musical at the Fox, an outrageous Biblical satire at Stray Dog, a darkly comic tale of 1950s repression from R-S, and the Gateway Men's Chorus annual holiday show.

Share on Google+:

New This Week:

Les Misérables

The Fabulous Fox Theatre presents the Broadway musical Les Misérables Tuesday through Sunday, December 11 - 16. "Winner of over 100 international awards and seen by over 65 million people worldwide, Les Misérables is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. " The Fabulous Fox Theatre in on N. Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

My take: To quote my review of the 2012 visit of this 25th-anniversary production: From the opening prisoners' chorus through the sublime finale three hours later, the show's canny combination of a conventional but memorable score, compelling characters and situations (the source is, after all, a literary classic), and fluid staging (made even more so by the projected video) grabs and holds your attention and emotions. It remains, in my view, one of the most effective pieces of musical theatre of the late 20th century. It's also a powerful refutation of smug self-righteousness and laissez-faire ruthlessness, both of which have been poisoning domestic political discourse for many years. Go see it.

The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told
Photo by John Lamb

Perfect Arrangement
Photo by Michael Young

The Gateway Men's Chorus presents 'Twas the Night on Friday and Saturday, December 14 and 15, at 8 p.m. "GMC's holiday program this year promises a great mix of traditional classics, family favorites, and timeless music of reflection and joy at this special season. Your evening will include popular standards you know by heart, but we also have performances that will pique your interest such as the hilarious Hanukkah in Santa Monica, and of course, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas." The concert takes place at Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. For more information: gmcstl.org.

My take: The Gateway Men's Chorus has been a local cultural treasure for three decades now, and deserves our support. And with darkness seemingly pressing in on us from all sides these days, we can certainly use a celebration of light and life. Besides, they're going to perform a Tom Lehrer song.

Held Over:

All is Calm
Photo by Ann K. Aurbach

Mustard Seed Theatre presents the acappella musical All is Calm Thursdays through Sundays through December 16. "Join us in celebrating the power of peace in this acapella musical based on the true story of soldiers during World War I who for one night, put down their arms and played soccer instead of exchanging bullets." Performances take place at the Fontbonne Fine Arts Theatre, 6800 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call (314) 719-8060 or visit the web site at www.mustardseedtheatre.com.

My take: All is Calm has become an annual winter tradition at Mustard Seed. With a script by Peter Rothstein and musical arrangements by Erick Lichte and Timothy C. Takach, this story of the remarkable Christmas truce of 1914—a spontaneous outbreak of peace that occurred at multiple points along the trenches in France—combines splendid and often quite complex acappella singing with readings of letters from soldiers and other historical documents. At a time when opportunistic politicians are pushing an agenda of hate, fear, and eternal war, this is a play that everyone needs to see. As we used to ask back in the 1960s, "what if they gave a war and nobody came?

A Christmas Story
Photo by Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

Tribes
Photo by Johh Lamb

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents Tribes Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 pm through December 16. "Billy was born deaf into a hearing family. He was raised inside its fiercely idiosyncratic and politically incorrect cocoon. He has adapted brilliantly to his family's unconventional ways, but they've never bothered to return the favor. It's not until he meets Sylvia, a young woman on the brink of deafness, that he finally understands what it means to be understood." Performances take place at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. For more information call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

My take: At Ladue News, Mark Bretz writes that this is "a sizzling presentation of Nina Raine’s searing drama about a bruising family where impulses are acted out and thoughts of any kind are expressed with nary a concern for hurt feelings. Tribes is an extraordinary play brilliantly interpreted by director Annamaria Pileggi and her first-rate cast." At lot of theatre at this time of year is all about the holidays. Kudos to STLAS for choosing to present something more weighty.

Wonderland

Stage Left

Sunday, December 30, 2018

Review: Merrie melodies

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 31, 2018

Friday, December 28, 2018

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 28, 2018

Review: A fine romance

Sunday, December 23, 2018

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 24, 2018

Review: Holly jolly novelty

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 21, 2018

Saturday, December 15, 2018

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of December 17, 2018

Friday, December 14, 2018

Review: Holiday storm

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of December 17, 2018

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of December 14, 2018

Related Stuff

Blog Stars

Blog Archive